Shamrock facts

Shamrocks are the young sprigs of clover or trefoil. The shamrock is a symbol of Ireland. According to a legend, Saint Patrick used it to illustrate the doctrine of the Holy Trinity. The name shamrock is derived from Irishseamróg. This is the diminutive version of the Irish word for clover (seamair) meaning simply "little clover" or "young clover". Sometimes other three-leafed plants are called shamrocks. The shamrock can be used for its medicinal properties. It was used as a motif in Victorian days. Around March 17 (Saint Patrick's Day) small pots of shamrocks are sold. Some people wear sprigs of shamrock in a buttonhole on the holiday.

Images

Trifolium dubium

Trifolium repens

Medicago lupulina flowers in Ireland from May to October and so is not in flower on St. Patrick's Day

Three "wild" Irish kerns by Albert Dürer 1521

St. Patrick depicted with shamrock in detail of stained glass window in St. Benin's Church, Wicklow, Ireland

Drawing of the medal awarded to the First Magherafelt Volunteers for skill with broadsword showing shamrocks.